Thursday, June 05, 2008

The UN says to use wind-up alarm clocks to reduce global warming

People can help slow global warming with minor lifestyle changes such as using wind-up alarm clocks, taking direct flights and replacing aged appliances, a United Nations study found.

Using a spring-driven clock instead of an electric prevents 48 grams (1.7 ounces) of carbon-dioxide emissions daily, while air-drying clothes saves 2.3 kilograms (5.1 pounds) daily, the Nairobi-based UN Environment Program said today in an e-mailed statement. Jogging in the park rather than on a treadmill at a gym can cut 1 kilogram of carbon dioxide, or CO2, the main pollutant blamed for global warming.

People living in wealthy countries emit more than 10 metric tons (11 tons) of CO2 each per year, a figure that must drop to 2 metric tons by 2050 to slow the rate of temperature increases, according to the German environment ministry. About half of an individual's carbon output can be eliminated with ``little or no change in comfort,'' the UNEP said.

I see there's no word on battery powered dildos which are so vital to the UN lifestyle. Personally, I've got my own plan to do my part on Carbon Belch Day:

On June 12, we’re calling on people around the globe to do their part to save the planet by unleashing a healthy Carbon Belch.

There’s so much you can do to increase your carbon footprint on Carbon Belch Day -- mow your lawn, go for a drive, gather neighbors for a barbecue (calculate your carbon belch here). In fact, there’s something for everyone. It’s never been so easy to do your part.